About the BBN-L: Basically, Duane's BBN series is like a SMF with a "bobcat" tail end. So, it is familiar as the SMF we all know and love, and yet has an entirely new feel. As you can see from the picture below of the BBN-L on top of a SMF, not a ton of material has been actually removed. However, that tiny dimensional change makes the knife feel smaller in the hand. Reverse grip is also enhanced. While in your pocket, it is easier to get your hand in that pocket to get at your other stuff.

The Frame: Titanium lock side with hand flamed finish. Carbon fiber non-lock side with US Flag engraving. All upgraded titanium hardware (pivot, screws, etc.) anodized bronze. Both side have been ball milled giving both increased grip and looks that kill. Pocket clip can be configured for both left and right hand carry.

Note: Last three pictures are for comparison only, and may not show the actual knife.

About Carpenter CD#1 Steel: The "CD" stands for "Coin Die" as in the material that strikes coins when minting. This high tech version uses Carpenter's Micro-Melt powdered metal process for uniform carbide distribution. Duane has been talking about getting some of this material for some time and finally has done the first couple pieces with it. CD#1's claim to fame is its super toughness (ability to resist cracking or breaking) as you can imagine that it would be as it has to strike other metals under high pressure. So think super tough material similar to PD#1 and CPM 3V. And like those materials it has less than the 10.5% chromium required to be called a 'stainless steel' (CD#1 has 8.25% chromium). So you do trade a bit of corrosion resistance for the huge increase in toughness.